Allergan Spent $300K Lobbying Government In 2Q

WASHINGTON (AP) — Allergan Inc., which makes eye care products and Botox anti-wrinkle injections, spent $300,000 lobbying Congress in the second quarter, according to a recent disclosure form.

The Irvine, Calif.-based company lobbied on a bill designed to give the Food and Drug Administration authority to approve generic versions of biotech drugs. Unlike traditional chemical drugs, biotech drugs have never faced generic competition because the FDA lacks authority to approve cheaper copies.

The biotech industry, which includes companies like Allergan, has argued that its products must be protected for 12-14 years before competing with cheaper copies from generic companies. Executives say that period is necessary to recoup the costs of developing high-tech biologic medications.

The generic biotech is expected to be included in larger health care reform legislation currently moving through Congress.

Allergan lobbyists also lobbied on various bills related to the FDA, according to a form filed July 20 with the House clerk's office.